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PDAs can be used solely as a reference tool or they can be used to record data or text. The text maybe a short title for an essay in the To-Do list or the research notes made whilst in a library. Firstly we shall look at the native (programs available on a PDA at the time of purchase) text entry methods for Palm OS and Pocket PC. We will then look at any enhancements or alternatives that are available for each method of text entry.
Palms have two native methods of data entry; a basic handwriting character recognition system called Graffiti and an auxiliary onscreen keyboard.
The Graffiti handwriting recognition system is a simple notational language that relies on users learning specific strokes for each alphanumeric character, often similar to capitalized letters or standard numbers. However, it should not really be called a handwriting recognition system when compared to the Pocket PC version, which recognises cursive script. Letter input occurs on the left portion of the writing space at the bottom of the screen, whilst the right side is for numbers (silky-pad area).
It should also be noted that Graffiti can sometimes be counter-intuitive to learn for those with specific learning difficulties or dyslexia, for example the letter T is drawn like an inverted and upside-down L. In some cases, the only difference between two characters is the tail. For example, a G has a tail, but a C doesn't. There is also some memory overload and speed is not guaranteed when note-taking. The touch screen sensitivity of a device may need re-calibrating at times and the screen itself can become scratched if too much force is consistently applied. It is wise to write with the appropriate stylus pens and to put some type of transparent film on the face of the device (cut to size overhead transparencies) or to purchase specific model screen protectors from various suppliers.
Palm OS includes a useful help sheet that you bring up by drawing Command-G (a diagonal stroke drawn from the bottom left to the top right followed by the Graffiti stroke for G), the extended characters and punctuation marks can be seen by using the up and down arrow.
One way to increase the tactile feedback is to use a PostIT note (a 3M brand name), (also known as reposition-able notes) and cut off the adhesive strip and place a portion of the strip onto the Graffiti area. This will increase the friction between the stylus and the screen. (Do not use any adhesive tape as this may damage the screen). Further tips for mastering Graffiti can be found on Edgar's Graffiti Tricks Page .
This Palm extension program allows you to set a portion of the Graffiti area to instantly provide capitalised letters. Its also has the ability to change miswritten b's and d's to their correct counterpart when you use the backspace command rather than having to try and re-type the letter. (It also monitors the following confusable letters, C's and E's, G's and O's, U's and V's).
This application enables the Graffiti recogniser to be used on the full-screen or in the input panel area, which allows you to increase the size of your writing and work more comfortably. It also allows users to see what they are writing in ink before it turns to text, which can help to improve recognition accuracy.
http://www.palm.com/products/input/
http://www.electronhut.com/ghelp/
http://www.geek.com/tipstrix/palm/palmtips.htm
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